Classes
DEA Class; OTC
Common Brand Names; Carafate
- Gastrointestinal Agents, Other
Description
Oral aluminum-containing sucrose sulfate complex; forms adherent, protective barrier at sites of damaged GI mucosa, shields mucosa from pepsin, acid, and bile; used for esophagitis, GERD, GI ulceration, and stomatitis.
Indications
Treatment of oral ulcerations and dysphagia in patients with epidermolysis bullosa
Treatment of oral complications of chemotherapy in bone marrow transplant recipients
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity
Adverse Effects
- Constipation (2%)
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Flatulence
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Vertigo
- Vomiting
Warnings
Not expected to alter post healing frequency of recurrence or severity of duodenal ulceration; acts locally at the ulcer
Do not take antacids within 30 minutes of sucralfate dose
Aluminum absorption is increased; use with caution in patients with chronic renal failure or undergoing dialysis
Potential significant drug interactions possible; consult drug interaction database
Use tablet with caution in patients with conditions that may impair swallowing, or with altered gag/cough reflex
Hyperglycemia has been reported when drug is used in patients with diabetes
Sucralfate may alter absorption of some drugs; take other medications 2 hours before taking sucralfate
Fatal complications, including pulmonary and cerebral emboli reported with inappropriate intravenous administration of oral suspension; administer oral suspension only by oral route; not for intravenous administration
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnancy category: B
Lactation: Probably safe because drug is minimally absorbed; unknown whether drug is excreted in breast milk
Maximum Dosage
4 g/day PO.
4 g/day PO.
4 g/day PO.
Maximum dosage not established. 80 mg/kg/day PO or alternatively, up to 2000 mg/day PO has been suggested for most indications.
How supplied
Sucralfate
tablet
- 1g
oral suspension
- 1000mg/10mL
